Moment

Stupid!

That was how my mathematics teacher called me once during my senior year in high school. I was in front of the class, on the board, having answered incorrectly a math problem he said was easy. Stunned and stupefied, I could not remember how long have I stood there. I thought my legs kept me from moving, when so many eyes were upon me, I was enveloped with embarrassment and numbness. After the class, I declined to have my lunch, afraid that my classmates would poke fun at me. And yes they did, behind me (which i would learn later).

That was the turning point of my life with mathematics. I really could not blame my teacher. Mathematics was something I detest then, and it was my waterloo. But that unfortunate incident, it dawned upon me that I better put myself together and redeem myself. Not to prove to my teacher that I am what he thinks I am, I embarked on a journey. And this I did with mathematics as company. Years later, I earned my degree in mathematics.

When it came to my teacher's knowledge, he looked for me. He wanted me to replace him as a teacher when he retired (this I got from a friend).

We never met. But it was enough.

Alas! I already redeemed myself!

What could have happened had I taken it against my teacher? I would have been damaged. Now, I have a story to every one of my students. And I am glad I look at everything positively.

I have my math teacher to thank to.

(Written during the semi-final judging of Metrobank's Search for Outstanding Teacher on 7 July 2010 at Metrobank Plaza, Makati City as a tribute to one of my teachers).